We organised a number of trials to assess the different technologies available to provide AVL functionality for railway applications. The trials were carried out in the UK and Europe using different types of rail vehicle and infrastructure. Vehicle types were diesel-electric locomotives, diesel-electric multiple units, electric multiple units and dual 3rd rail/overhead electric multiple units. Infrastructure types were non-electrified lines, AC & DC overhead electrified lines and 3rd rail electrified lines.

Personal Track Safety (PTS) Certificates were held throughout the duration of our rail projects.

Case Study

A complete “AVL” system was specified, designed and fitted as part of a passenger information system for South West and Wales trains. This included the design of the on board train equipment and a dual redundant computer system. The computer system provided an interface between the data output from and AVL system and the railway's TRUST (Train running and Statistics) system. One very important part of the overall project was liaison with the Railtrack accredited vehicle acceptance body (VAB) for certification of the overall system design, the vehicle mounted equipment and the installation.